Is Hoisin Sauce the Same as Eel Sauce?

Asian sauces are known for their varieties and tastes. Sometimes, they can confuse people who are not familiar with them due to their similar appearances but unique flavors. In this article, we will focus on two frequently used condiments: the hoisin sauce and the eel sauce.

Then, is hoisin sauce the same as eel sauce? What are hoisin sauce and eel sauce made of? How are they used to cook culinary dishes, and what are their substitutes? As an experienced sauce manufacturer, JOLION Foods will guide you through all!

What is Hoisin Sauce?

We start by exploring the hoisin sauce to figure out, "Is hoisin sauce the same as eel sauce?" 

1. What is Hoisin Sauce?

Hoisin sauce is a thick, savory-sweet condiment originating from Chinese cuisine. Its name "hoisin" actually means "seafood" in Cantonese, but the sauce does not contain seafood. Conventionally, it accompanies dishes like Peking duck, stir-fried vegetables, and noodle dishes, adding depth and flavor to meals.

2. What is Hoisin Sauce Made of?

Hoisin sauce boasts its special flavor, achieved by the balance of ingredients. Common ingredients include soybeans, garlic, sugar, sesame, and spices. Most store-bought versions also use starch for added thickness and a bit of chili for some kick. The end product is a complex, umami-rich sauce with sweet, salty, and tangy undertones.

3. How to Use Hoisin Sauce 

Hoisin sauce is versatile and easy to use in many dishes. The following are the general uses:

• Marinades: Use hoisin sauce as a marinade for different meats like pork, beef, or chicken for a flavorful glaze.

• Dipping Sauce: Serve it as a dip along with fresh spring rolls, dumplings, or Chinese pancakes.

• Stir-Fries: Add a few spoonfuls to the stir-fried vegetables or noodles for a savory sweet coating.

• Glazes: Use it to glaze roasted meats or tofu to gain extra shine and flavor.

4. What is a Substitute for Hoisin Sauce?

In cases that need substitutes for hoisin sauce, some common alternatives are:

• Soy Sauce with Honey/Peanut Butter: Mix soy sauce with honey or peanut butter; the result should be a savory and creamy substitute.

• BBQ Sauce with Peach/Apricot Jam: This can make a tangier hoisin substitute with sweet and salty tints.

• Oyster Sauce: Though less sweet, oyster sauce can mimic the umami tones of hoisin sauce.

What is Eel Sauce?

1. What is Eel Sauce?  

Eel sauce, also referred to as "unagi sauce" or "kabayaki sauce," is a famous Japanese condiment classically used to enhance the flavor of the grilled eel (unagi). Similar to the fact that the hoisin sauce does not contain seafood, the eel sauce does not have eel in it, either. Generally, this sauce is basically used as a glaze for seafood and sushi dishes.

2. What is Eel Sauce Made of?

Eel sauce is a simple ingredient-based sauce that serves balanced flavors:

• Soy sauce to add saltiness and umami taste,

• Mirin, or Japanese sweet rice wine, to add sweetness,

• Sugar to enhance the caramelized effect,

• Sake, or Japanese rice wine, to give depth and complexity.

The ingredients are simmered together until the sauce thickens into a glossy, slightly sweet glaze.

3. How to Use Eel Sauce

While originally paired with grilled eel, modern Japanese cuisine uses eel sauce in a wide variety of ways, which include:

• Sushi and Rolls: Drizzle eel sauce on sushi or maki rolls for a sweet-savory finish.

• Grilled Dishes: Brush it over grilled fish, chicken, or vegetables for a caramelized glaze.

• Rice Bowls: Add it to rice dishes like donburi for an umami-packed topping.

• Bento Boxes: Serve in small portions as a complementary dip for proteins.

4. What is a Substitute for Eel Sauce?

Some common eel sauce substitutes are:

• Teriyaki Sauce: Sweet and salty, this sauce works well enough.

• Soy Sauce with Honey: Mix soy sauce with honey or sugar for an effective stand-in.

• Hoisin Sauce (used in small amounts): Being richer and heavier, this sauce can add a similar flavor note with careful use.

Brief Summary: Is hoisin sauce the same as eel sauce?

We can see from the above introduction that the hoisin sauce and the eel sauce are not the same. These two sauces use different raw materials and are applied in different types of dishes. However, by adding additions and being careful of the amount, hoisin sauce can be a solid eel sauce substitute.

Get Healthy Asian Sauces from JOLION Foods

JOLION Foods is an experienced sauce manufacturer committed to offering healthy and tasty premium sauces. We offer authentic flavor with clean ingredients and well-tested recipes.

In addition to hoisin sauces and unagi sauces, JOLION Foods also offers other types of Asian sauces like soy sauces, oyster sauces, chili sauces, vinegar, and more. With 20+ years of experience, we have always guaranteed high-quality products for our clients.

Furthermore, we also provide professional sauce OEM & ODM services for clients who need customized solutions to enhance their product offerings and meet specific market demands. JOLION Foods has a professional team and a comprehensive factory with leading automatic production lines to offer you certified sauces.

Conclusion

Is hoisin sauce the same as eel sauce? The answer is a resounding no. These two sauces play different roles in completing different dishes with their individual flavor profiles. For sauce brands, integrating these two sauces into your product offerings can cover a wider customer base.

Feel free to contact JOLION Foods if you are considering having healthy and delicious Asian sauces. We can offer sauces that make authentically appetizing Asian dishes as well as custom sauce making solutions according to your brand needs!